Sky has recently released a significant update for its well-liked Glass TVs and Stream boxes, and the best part is that it’s available for free to all users of these devices. The latest update, which started rolling out to homes last week, brings in several new features. Users can now control Sky’s internet-connected devices using their smartphones and set reminders for programs listed in the TV guide.
Furthermore, the settings menu has been revamped for easier navigation, and new accessibility options have been incorporated, including enhanced contrast controls for text and backgrounds within Sky applications. The company stated that Sky’s operating system, Sky OS, has been further enhanced to provide customers with smarter ways to manage their TV experience.
If you own a Sky Glass TV, Sky Glass Air device, or Sky Stream box, these features will automatically be available soon without the need for any manual adjustments or device restarts.
Among the new features now accessible on your TV are the ability to set reminders for favorite shows. This feature is available on all Sky Glass and Stream devices, allowing users to set reminders for any program in the TV guide easily. To use this feature, users can navigate to the show page they want to watch and select “Set a reminder.” Once done, a notification will pop up at the top of the screen when the show begins.
Another new feature is the option to control the TV using the digital Sky remote app, which is now available for iOS and Android devices. Through the app, users can quickly find favorite shows, change channels, and manage playback functions with a simple tap. The remote app also includes built-in accessibility features like screen reader support.
Sky has also simplified its settings for easier access. Users can now access settings by pressing the three dots on the Sky remote and scrolling right, eliminating the need to scroll down. Additionally, the quick access menu has been relocated for quicker navigation to settings for picture and sound, parental controls, accessibility, and more.
In terms of accessibility enhancements, users can now adjust the voice guidance speed for navigating the UI and select applications like Sky Sports +, Sky Store, Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, and RTE. The update also includes a high contrast feature for Sky apps and a magnification mode that allows users to zoom in up to 400% and pan across the UI using the number keys on the remote.
Moreover, Audio Description is now available on demand for Sky on-demand shows, providing an accessible experience similar to that available on Sky broadcast channels for Sky Cinema and Sky Entertainment on-demand content.